Deadline: August 22, 2025
The Refugee-led Innovation Fund is a unique initiative by UNHCR’s Innovation Service, designed to empower organisations led by displaced or stateless people to develop and implement innovative solutions to the challenges they face. Launched to support refugee-led creativity and agency, the Refugee-led Innovation Fund is reshaping the landscape of humanitarian aid by placing decision-making power in the hands of those most affected.
In this blog post, we explore everything you need to know about the Refugee-led Innovation Fund, from eligibility and funding details to how you can apply.
What is the Refugee-led Innovation Fund?
The Refugee-led Innovation Fund supports refugee-led organisations with financial and technical resources to design and implement impactful innovations within their communities. Rooted in the belief that displaced people are not just beneficiaries but also innovators and change-makers, the Fund ensures meaningful participation, co-design, and local ownership at every stage.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
The Fund is open to organisations, not individuals, that are:
- Led by people with lived experience of forced displacement or statelessness, including refugees, asylum-seekers, returnees, internally displaced persons, or stateless individuals.
- Both registered and unregistered community-based organisations are eligible.
- Special attention is given to organisations led by women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, and LGBTIQ+ individuals—groups that are often underrepresented.
To qualify, at least 50% of the leadership must be composed of displaced or stateless individuals.
What Support Does the Fund Provide?
Selected organisations receive grants of up to USD 45,000, alongside comprehensive support throughout the project lifecycle.
Key areas of support include:
- Project management guidance
- Technical expertise (legal, digital technology, human-centred design)
- Mentorship and coaching
- Capacity strengthening (monitoring, evaluation, sustainability, communications)
- Peer-to-peer learning and networking
Projects are typically supported for up to 18 months, with many set to begin as early as March 2025.
Why the Fund Matters
This initiative champions the vision of humanitarian action that is led by refugees for refugees. Since its inception, the Fund has supported more than 40 refugee-led organisations worldwide, including projects ranging from sustainable agriculture in Uganda to advocacy for stateless people in Europe.
The Fund is not just about delivering services—it’s about shifting the power dynamic in the humanitarian space and amplifying voices that have historically been marginalised.
Application Process and Key Dates
The current call for applications is open until 22 August 2025 at 23:59 Panama Time.
How to apply:
- Submit an Expression of Interest through the UNHCR platform.
- Applications are reviewed for alignment with the Fund’s objectives.
- Shortlisted organisations undergo a due diligence process.
- Selected candidates are invited to present their proposal before a panel.
- Final decisions are made by a steering committee comprising refugees, UNHCR representatives, and donors.
Applicants will be informed of outcomes within approximately 3 months of submission.
What’s New in 2025?
This year marks a new phase of growth for the Fund, with a greater emphasis on co-creation and diversity. The 2025 cycle continues to expand globally, building on lessons from earlier grantee cohorts. There is also an increased focus on inclusive governance, digital solutions, and climate resilience.
Quick Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Who can apply | Organisations led by displaced/stateless persons |
| Grant amount | Up to USD 45,000 |
| Support duration | Up to 18 months |
| Deadline | 22 August 2025 |
| Support includes | Funding, mentorship, training, peer learning |
| Application review | Within 3 months |
Apply Now
Ready to bring your community-led innovation to life?
👉 Click here to apply for the Refugee-led Innovation Fund
👉 Read more about the programme here
For expert help in drafting, refining, or reviewing your proposal, contact grantsdatabase.org today.
